Since 2021, future graphite mining major Nouveau Monde Graphite (NMG) and Caterpillar, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of construction and mining equipment, have been collaborating to develop, test, and supply an integrated all-electric fleet for the Matawinie mine.
In a recent review of its roadmap to zero-exhaust emission mining, NMG said it and Caterpillar’s technical teams are actively engaged in assessing technology opportunities and planning the all-electric fleet development and testing for the Phase-2 Matawinie mine. The goal is to deploy a complete and integrated zero-exhaust emission solution that covers fleet, infrastructure, and service by the fifth year of commercial operation at Matawinie.
Caterpillar is set to be NMG’s exclusive supplier of heavy mining equipment, supporting the progressive transition from traditional models to Cat® all-electric machines as they become available. The agreement encompasses machines such as hydraulic excavators, mining trucks, wheel loaders, dozers, and motor graders, but also charging and energy storage infrastructure as well as equipment maintenance services.
Moreover, NMG and Caterpillar are advancing commercial discussions targeting NMG’s active anode material. A full circular value chain could be established whereas NMG would supply carbon-neutral graphite materials to Caterpillar for the development of its secure, resilient, and sustainable battery supply chain that would serve to electrify heavy vehicles, including NMG’s Matawinie fleet.
“Not only will we benefit from Caterpillar’s stellar expertise, renowned products, and latest technological developments, but our team will also be at the forefront of the electric revolution in the sector, sharing insight, testing equipment for further optimisation, and providing battery materials to support electrification beyond our mine. This collaboration truly reflects our vision for leadership and unified efforts to advance responsible mining practices and global decarbonisation. I salute the commitment of Denise Johnson, Group President, Resource Industries, and Caterpillar’s team, without which our ambition would not have materialized so efficiently,” said Eric Desaulniers, President & CEO of NMG.
NMG leaders attended Caterpillar’s Sustainability Showcase in February 2023 where new equipment and technologies, such as the battery‑electric Cat® 793 mining truck, were displayed. Through this leading collaboration, NMG says it is directly contributing to the technological advancement of emission-free heavy vehicles.
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